Harad
Harad
Harad is an herb which is commonly known as Harade in India. It has multiple Ayurvedic health benefits. Harad is an amazing herb that can be helpful in controlling hair loss and promoting hair growth. This is due to the presence of vitamin C, iron, manganese, selenium, and copper that provides optimal nourishment to the scalp. In Ayurveda textbooks, properties of Harad are mentioned in this sloka:
हरीतकी प चरसाइलवणा तुवरा परम्। रूक्षोष्णा दीपनी मेथ्या स्वादुपाका रसायनी॥
चक्षुष्या लघुरायुष्या बृंहणी चानुलोमिनी। श्वासकासप्रमेहार्शः कुष्ठशोथोदरक्रिमीन्।
वैस्वर्यग्रहणीरोगविबन्धविषमज्वरान् । गुल्माध्मानतृषाछर्दिहिक्काकण्डूहृदामयान्।।
Harad has Ruksha (dry), Deepan (appetizer), Medhya (intelligence improving), and Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties. The use of Harad is beneficial for eyes and general weakness due to its Chakshuya (good for eyes) and Brahan (improves health) nature. It also helps to reduce body ache due to the Vata Anuloma (Vata balancing) property. Harad is also useful in reducing cough and its associated problems like breathlessness. It also helps in relieving digestive problems due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive).
The oil obtained from Harad seeds is used to improve the motility of the gastrointestinal tract. This helps promote bowel movement and promote the easy removal of stool in case of chronic constipation. Taking Harad powder (mixed with water) two times a day helps boost the immune system by reducing cell damage due to its antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities.
Applying Harad powder along with coconut oil in the form of paste is used to heal wounds due to its astringent property. It also helps fight against infectious agents and prevents skin infections. Harad extract can also be applied on the eyelids to manage certain eye diseases as it acts as a nerve tonic.
In some cases, excessive consumption of Harad might cause diarrhea. Also, it would be advisable to use Harad paste with a carrier oil (coconut oil) if your skin is hypersensitive[2][3][7][8].
हरीतकी प चरसाइलवणा तुवरा परम्। रूक्षोष्णा दीपनी मेथ्या स्वादुपाका रसायनी॥
चक्षुष्या लघुरायुष्या बृंहणी चानुलोमिनी। श्वासकासप्रमेहार्शः कुष्ठशोथोदरक्रिमीन्।
वैस्वर्यग्रहणीरोगविबन्धविषमज्वरान् । गुल्माध्मानतृषाछर्दिहिक्काकण्डूहृदामयान्।।
Harad has Ruksha (dry), Deepan (appetizer), Medhya (intelligence improving), and Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties. The use of Harad is beneficial for eyes and general weakness due to its Chakshuya (good for eyes) and Brahan (improves health) nature. It also helps to reduce body ache due to the Vata Anuloma (Vata balancing) property. Harad is also useful in reducing cough and its associated problems like breathlessness. It also helps in relieving digestive problems due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive).
The oil obtained from Harad seeds is used to improve the motility of the gastrointestinal tract. This helps promote bowel movement and promote the easy removal of stool in case of chronic constipation. Taking Harad powder (mixed with water) two times a day helps boost the immune system by reducing cell damage due to its antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities.
Applying Harad powder along with coconut oil in the form of paste is used to heal wounds due to its astringent property. It also helps fight against infectious agents and prevents skin infections. Harad extract can also be applied on the eyelids to manage certain eye diseases as it acts as a nerve tonic.
In some cases, excessive consumption of Harad might cause diarrhea. Also, it would be advisable to use Harad paste with a carrier oil (coconut oil) if your skin is hypersensitive[2][3][7][8].
What are the synonyms of Harad?
Terminalia chebula, Myrobalan, Abhaya, Kayastha, Haritaki, Hirdo, Alalekai, Katukka, Hirda, Harida, Halela, Kadukkai, Karaka[1].
What is the source of Harad?
Plant Based
Benefits of Harad
1. Weak digestion
Harad improves digestion by forming a healthy intestinal environment and by increasing the absorption of nutrients from the food. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. Moreover, Harad also has Rechana (laxative) property that can aid in constipation.
2. Constipation
Harad helps manage constipation if it is made a paste and taken at night due to its Rechana (laxative) property.
3. Weight loss
Harad helps to remove toxins from the body and keeps digestive system on track due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It helps manage weight by proper digestion of the food and by improving the metabolism.
4. Cough and Cold
Harad is good for preventing cough and cold naturally due to its Kapha balancing property.
Tip:
Take Harad with Salt for balancing Kapha.
5. Weak Immunity
Harad improves immunity and increases longevity due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
6. Skin disease
Harad helps manage skin diseases by purifying the blood due to its Pitta balancing nature. It also works by removing the dead skin cells and helps in the growth of new cells due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
7. Arthritis
Harad helps to manage joint pain and enhance the longevity of tissues, muscles, and bones due to its Vata balancing property. For Vata balancing effect take Harad with ghee.
8. Alzheimer's Disease
Harad gives strength to the nervous system and helps control its related disorders due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) and Vata balancing properties.
Harad improves digestion by forming a healthy intestinal environment and by increasing the absorption of nutrients from the food. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. Moreover, Harad also has Rechana (laxative) property that can aid in constipation.
2. Constipation
Harad helps manage constipation if it is made a paste and taken at night due to its Rechana (laxative) property.
3. Weight loss
Harad helps to remove toxins from the body and keeps digestive system on track due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It helps manage weight by proper digestion of the food and by improving the metabolism.
4. Cough and Cold
Harad is good for preventing cough and cold naturally due to its Kapha balancing property.
Tip:
Take Harad with Salt for balancing Kapha.
5. Weak Immunity
Harad improves immunity and increases longevity due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
6. Skin disease
Harad helps manage skin diseases by purifying the blood due to its Pitta balancing nature. It also works by removing the dead skin cells and helps in the growth of new cells due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
7. Arthritis
Harad helps to manage joint pain and enhance the longevity of tissues, muscles, and bones due to its Vata balancing property. For Vata balancing effect take Harad with ghee.
8. Alzheimer's Disease
Harad gives strength to the nervous system and helps control its related disorders due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) and Vata balancing properties.
Precautions when using Harad
Breastfeeding
Ayurvedic View
Consult your doctor before taking Harad during breastfeeding.
Pregnancy
Ayurvedic View
Consult your doctor before taking Harad during pregnancy.
Recommended Dosage of Harad
- Harad Churna - ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Harad Capsule - 1-2 capsules twice a day.
- Harad Tablet - 1-2 tablets twice a day.
How to use Harad
1. Harad Powder
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Harad powder according to the special Ritu Haritaki pattern:
i. In the spring season, take Harad with Honey.
ii. In the summer season, take Harad with Jaggery.
iii. In monsoon season, take Harad with Rock salt.
iv. In autumn season, take Harad with Sugar.
v. In the early winter season, take Harad with Ginger.
vi. In the winter season, take Harad with Long pepper.
2. Harad Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Harad capsule.
b. Swallow it with water after taking lunch or dinner.
3. Harad Tablets
a. Take 1-2 Harad tablets.
b. Swallow it with water after taking lunch or dinner.
4. Harad Kwatha
a. Take 4-5 teaspoon of Harad kwatha.
b. Add the same quantity of water and drink preferably once or twice a day after taking food.
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Harad powder according to the special Ritu Haritaki pattern:
i. In the spring season, take Harad with Honey.
ii. In the summer season, take Harad with Jaggery.
iii. In monsoon season, take Harad with Rock salt.
iv. In autumn season, take Harad with Sugar.
v. In the early winter season, take Harad with Ginger.
vi. In the winter season, take Harad with Long pepper.
2. Harad Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Harad capsule.
b. Swallow it with water after taking lunch or dinner.
3. Harad Tablets
a. Take 1-2 Harad tablets.
b. Swallow it with water after taking lunch or dinner.
4. Harad Kwatha
a. Take 4-5 teaspoon of Harad kwatha.
b. Add the same quantity of water and drink preferably once or twice a day after taking food.
Benefits of Harad
1. Acne
Harad helps to manage acne and scar due to its Ruksha (dry) and Kashaya (astringent) properties.
2. Hair Fall
Harad is an amazing herb that can be helpful in controlling hair loss. Harad is rich in vitamin C, iron, manganese, selenium, copper and helps in hair growth due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
3. Skin Allergy
Harad is used to managing various skin disorders associated with allergies, urticaria and skin rash due to its Ropan (healing) and Rasayana (rejuvenating ) properties.
4. Wound
Harad helps in quick healing of wounds due to its Kashaya (astringent) and Ropan (healing) properties which help to fight against infection and accelerate the healing process.
Harad helps to manage acne and scar due to its Ruksha (dry) and Kashaya (astringent) properties.
2. Hair Fall
Harad is an amazing herb that can be helpful in controlling hair loss. Harad is rich in vitamin C, iron, manganese, selenium, copper and helps in hair growth due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
3. Skin Allergy
Harad is used to managing various skin disorders associated with allergies, urticaria and skin rash due to its Ropan (healing) and Rasayana (rejuvenating ) properties.
4. Wound
Harad helps in quick healing of wounds due to its Kashaya (astringent) and Ropan (healing) properties which help to fight against infection and accelerate the healing process.
Precautions when using Harad
Allergy
Ayurvedic View
Use Harad paste with coconut oil if your skin is hypersensitive.
Recommended Dosage of Harad
- Harad Powder - ½-1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Harad
1. Harad Fruit Paste
a. Make a paste of the Harad fruit powder with coconut oil.
b. Apply on the wound for faster healing.
a. Make a paste of the Harad fruit powder with coconut oil.
b. Apply on the wound for faster healing.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Harad contains various biochemicals such as hydrolysable tannins, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids which attributes to its therapeutic benefits. Harad has numerous medicinal benefits like its fruit extract is used for maintaining a healthy liver, colon and spleen. It is also known to act as a good digestive tonic.
Modern Science View
Harad is available is the market in the following forms such as:
Powder
Tablets
Capsule
Powder
Tablets
Capsule
Modern Science View
Keep Harad powder in a tightly-sealed container in a cool, dry place. The shelf life of Harad powder is approximately three years and can be extended if stored in the refrigerator.
Modern Science View
Yes, Harad help boosts the immune system due to its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. Due to its strong antioxidant property, it inhibits the activity of free radicals. This help in reducing the oxidative damage to the immune system.[11].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Harad helps to improve immunity and increase longevity due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
Tip:
1. Take 5-10 pieces of Harad.
2. Shallow Fry with ghee and let it cool.
3. Grind it to make a powder.
4. Store this powder in an airtight container.
5. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon of this powder twice a day.
Tip:
1. Take 5-10 pieces of Harad.
2. Shallow Fry with ghee and let it cool.
3. Grind it to make a powder.
4. Store this powder in an airtight container.
5. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon of this powder twice a day.
Modern Science View
Yes, Harad might help in managing Alzheimer’s disease. This is due to its anticholinesterase, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Anticholinesterase activity delays the deposition of amyloid plaques and the antioxidant activity inhibits the production of free radicals. These are some of the causes of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s. Consult a medical practitioner before using Harad[3][4].
Modern Science View
Yes, Harad might be able to manage cancer. Harad contains phenolic compounds that inhibit cell proliferation and apoptosis (cell death). This reduces the spread of cancer cells in the body. But it is always advisable to consult a medical practitioner before using Harad for cancer[5][6] .
Modern Science View
Yes, Harad can be used to control chronic constipation and other digestive problems. This is due to its laxative property. Harad helps to promote bowel movement and in easy excretion of stool. It can also be used to promote better digestion[3][7][8].
Modern Science View
Yes, Harad (Terminalia chebula) can be used to manage cough and cold. This is due to its antitussive (prevent or relieve a cough) and antiviral activity[9].
Modern Science View
Yes, Harad helps to manage the symptoms of arthritis. This is due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Harad contains chebulagic acid that inhibits the activity of inflammatory proteins like interleukins. This gives relief from swelling and pain [3][10].
Modern Science View
Yes, Harad might be used to manage diabetes. The ethanolic extracts of Harad (Terminalia chebula) stimulates the surviving beta cells to release insulin thus maintaining blood glucose levels[2][12].
Modern Science View
Yes, Harad being a digestive aid helps to improve appetite or hunger in an individual. The use of Harad in improving hunger is a traditional method and exact scientific mechanism or action is still unknown[18].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Harad helps to improve your appetite by managing your digestive system due to its Ushna (hot), Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties. This helps to improve your Agni (digestive fire) and enhance your appetite.
Tip:
1. Take 5-10 pieces of Harad.
2. Shallow fry with ghee and let it cool.
3. Grind it to make a powder.
4. Store this powder in an airtight container.
5. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon of this powder twice a day to improve appetite.
Tip:
1. Take 5-10 pieces of Harad.
2. Shallow fry with ghee and let it cool.
3. Grind it to make a powder.
4. Store this powder in an airtight container.
5. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon of this powder twice a day to improve appetite.
Modern Science View
There is no scientific evidence or proven mechanism to support the use of Harad in case of diarrhea. However in Ayurveda and Unani system of medicine, the unripe fruit of Terminalia Chebula or Harad is used to manage diarrhea due to its astringent and constipating effects[16][18].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, unripe Harad might be used to manage diarrhea due to its kashaya (astringent) property. It helps control the frequency of motion.
Tip:
1. Take 1-2 Harad tablets.
2. Swallow it with water after lunch or dinner.
3. Repeat till the symptoms subside.
Tip:
1. Take 1-2 Harad tablets.
2. Swallow it with water after lunch or dinner.
3. Repeat till the symptoms subside.
Modern Science View
Yes, Harad can be used to manage acne due to its antibacterial property. Harad inhibits the growth of Staphylococcus aureus (acne-causing microorganism) and reduces pain and redness associated with it[2][13].
Modern Science View
Yes, Harad (Terminalia chebula) can be used to manage various dental problems such as dental caries due to its antibacterial activity. Harad shows antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus mutans (dental caries-causing bacteria) and reduces further infection[2][14].
Modern Science View
Yes, the extract of Harad leaves can be applied topically for faster wound healing. The tannins present in Harad possess strong angiogenic activity thus increasing the formation of new capillaries at the site of wound. Harad also has antibacterial property and inhibits the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumonia, both of which slow down the healing of wounds[2][15].
Modern Science View
Although there is no scientific evidence on the use of Harad for headache; traditionally it is used to manage headaches.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Harad might help give relief from headache which occurs due to indigestion or cold due to its Ushna (hot), Deepan (appetizer), Pachan (digestion) and Vata-Pitta-Kapha balancing properties. It helps to improve digestion in case of indigestion and provide relief from cold by melting the collected mucus. This helps give relief from headache.
Tip:
1. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Harad powder.
2. Swallow it with water.
3. Repeat daily until you get relief from headache.
Tip:
1. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Harad powder.
2. Swallow it with water.
3. Repeat daily until you get relief from headache.
Modern Science View
Yes, Harad or Harad oil is used to control dandruff. Dandruff is caused due to fungal infections. Harad due to the presence of gallic acid has antifungal properties which further helps to manage dandruff[16].
Ayurvedic View
Dandruff mainly occurs due to an imbalance of Pitta or Kapha dosha. Harad controls and prevents formation of dandruff due to its Pitta and Kapha balancing properties. It helps to reduce the oiliness from the scalp which further prevents accumulation of dirt on the scalp.
Tip:
1. Use Harad hair oil regularly to manage as well as to prevent further dandruff.
Tip:
1. Use Harad hair oil regularly to manage as well as to prevent further dandruff.
Modern Science View
Yes, Harad being a nerve tonic is beneficial for eye diseases like conjunctivitis and loss of eyesight. In case of conjunctivitis, its extract can be applied on the eyelids[17].
Ayurvedic View
Most of the eye problems like burning, itching or redness generally occurs due to an imbalance of Pitta dosha. Harad is beneficial for eye diseases due to its Pitta balancing and Chakshushya (eye tonic) properties. It helps to reduce all these symptoms and give a soothing effect in the eyes.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1.Volume 1.
- Bag A, Bhattacharyya SK, Chattopadhyay RR.The development of Terminalia chebula Retz. (Combretaceae) in clinical research.Asian Pac J Trop Biomed.2013;3(3): 244–252.
- Afshari AR, Sadeghnia HR, Mollazadeh H.A review on potential mechanisms of Terminalia chebula in Alzheimer's Disease.Adv Pharmacol Sci. 2016;2016: 8964849.
- Sancheti S, Sancheti S, Um BH, Seo SY.1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose: A cholinesterase inhibitor from Terminalia chebula.South African J Bot.2010;76(2):285-288.
- Saleem A, Husheem M, Härkönen P, Pihlaja K.Inhibition of cancer cell growth by crude extract and the phenolics of Terminalia chebula retz. fruit.J Ethnopharmacol.2002;81(3):327-336.
- Lee SH, Ryu SY, Choi SU, Lee CO, No Z, Kim SK, et al.Hydrolysable tannins and related compound having cytotoxic activity from the fruits of Terminalia chebula.Arch Pharm Res.1995;18(2):118-120.
- Gupta PC.Biological and pharmacological properties of Terminalia chebula retz.(haritaki)-an overview.Int J Pharm Pharm Sci.2012;4(3):62-68.
- Dwivedi S, Dwivedi A, Kapadia R et al.Anthelmintic activity of alcoholic and aqueous extract of fruits of Terminalia chebula retz.Ethnobotanical Leaflets.2008;12:741-743.
- Lee H-S, Won NH, Kim KH, Lee H, Jun W, Lee K-W.Antioxidant effects of aqueous extract of Terminalia chebula in vivo and in vitro.Biol Pharm Bull.2005;28(9):1639-1644.
- Bag A, Kumar Bhattacharyya S, Kumar Pal N, Chattopadhyay RR.Anti-inflammatory, anti-lipid peroxidative, antioxidant and membrane stabilizing activities of hydroalcoholic extract of Terminalia chebula fruits.Pharm Biol. 2013;51(12):1515-1520.
- Devasagayam TPA, Sainis KB.Immune system and antioxidants, especially those derived from Indian medicinal plants.Indian Journal of Experimental Biology.2002;40(6):639-655.
- Kannan VR, Rajasekar GS, Rajesh P, et al.Anti-diabetic activity on ethanolic extracts of fruits of Terminalia chebula Retz. alloxan induced diabetic rats.Am J Drug Discov Dev.2012;2(3):135-142.
- Kannan P, Ramadevi SR, Hopper W.Antibacterial activity of Terminalia chebula fruit extract.African J Microbiol Res.2009;3(4):180-184.
- Aneja KR, Joshi R.Evaluation of antimicrobial properties of fruit extracts of Terminalia chebula against dental caries pathogens.Jundishapur J Microbiol.2009;2(3):105-111.
- Li K, Diao Y, Zhang H, Wang S, Zhang Z, Yu B, et al.Tannin extracts from immature fruits of Terminalia chebula Fructus Retz. promote cutaneous wound healing in rats.BMC Complement Altern Med.2011;11:1-9.
- Biswas P, Dey S.T. chebula and its medicinal value.International Journal of Advanced Agricultural Sciences and Technology.2015; 4(1):79-85.
- Dodke PC, Pansare TA. Ayurvedic and modern aspect of Terminalia chebula Retz. Haritaki An Overview. International Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine.2015; 7(2):2508–2517.
- Singh DK, Upadhyay A, Agrahari P.A Review on the pharmacological aspects of Terminalia chebula. International Journal of Pharmacology.2014;10 (6):289-298.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.